Dekton vs Compact Laminate Worktops

Compact laminate is a popular choice for those who want a more durable worktop than traditional laminate, but how does it compare to Dekton?

In this guide, we will compare the properties of Dekton vs compact laminate and examine the similarities and differences to help you decide which material is suitable for your kitchen or bathroom.

What are compact laminate worktops made from? 

Compact laminate worktops are sometimes called solid laminate and are made from layers of card and resin, providing a strong surface throughout. They are completely solid and do not have a chipboard layer beneath the surface like traditional laminate worktops.

Compact laminate is remarkably water-resistant and far more durable than standard laminate.

Pros of Compact Laminate Worktops

Compact laminate worktops are popular because of their increased strength and durability.  

The main benefits include the following:

• A wide choice of designs and colours
• It can be cut into different shapes and sizes
• Holes can be made for under-mount sinks and draining grooves
• Durable and long-lasting
• More economical than Dekton worktops
• Easy to clean and maintain

What are Dekton worktops made from?

Dekton worktops are engineered natural stones made exclusively by Cosentino using a unique manufacturing process. Natural quartz, porcelain and glass, alongside some other natural minerals, are sintered together to produce a highly durable work surface.

The patented method is known as TSP (Technology of sinterized particles). The process involves putting the raw materials under extreme pressure and heat to create an ultra-compact surface with a depth of around 2cm.

The resulting worktop will be defect-free and entirely non-porous, and extremely long-lasting.

Pros of Dekton Worktops

Dekton worktops are popular with people who value a natural stone worktop that is exceptionally durable.

The main benefits of Dekton worktops are:

• A wide range of patterns and colours
• Ultra-compact and available in shallow depths without compromising durability
• Extreme durability
• Heat proof
• Water-resistant
• UV Resistant
• Long-lasting
• Low maintenance
• Sustainable

What are the differences between Dekton and compact laminate?

There are several differences between Dekton and compact laminate worktops.

Water and Stain Resistance

Dekton is completely water resistant thanks to the extreme pressure used during manufacture. You do not need to worry about spillages being absorbed, and you can use most general household surface cleaners safely.

Compact laminate is made using resins and polymers that prevent water ingress for a few days. It does not need any special treatment to retain its water-resistant properties.

The surface also protects the worktop from stains. Spillages can be cleaned using mild detergent and a sponge.

Heat Resistance 

Compact laminate has limited heat resistance. You can place a hot pan for a few seconds, but the resins are vulnerable to heat, and heat can cause damage and delamination.

We always recommend using trivets or mats to protect a compact laminate worktop.

Dekton has excellent heat resistance. Indeed,  Cosentino, the manufacturer of Dekton, claims that it is entirely fireproof. 

You can place any hot pans or plates directly on the surface without fear of scorching or cracking the surface.

Scratch Resistance

Dekton is incredibly dense and entirely scratch resistant. You can safely cut without a chopping board with no chance of scratching the surface. 

Incredibly, the only reason for using a chopping board is to protect your knives from blunting!

Compact laminate is somewhat resistant to scratching. Owners often say that their worktops remain looking good for many years. 

However, the polymer surface of compact laminate is vulnerable to scratches and chips and will begin to deteriorate over time. Using a chopping board to protect the surface when cutting is sensible.

Chipping: Dekton vs Compact Laminate Worktops

Both types of worktops are robust, but both are also vulnerable to chips. While Dekton is resistant to scratches, it is more vulnerable to chips if exposed to something heavy being dropped.

Similarly, compact laminate can be chipped when a heavy object is dropped.

UV Protection: Dekton vs Compact Laminate Worktops

Dekton has excellent UV protection. You can even use Dekton outside, as there is no risk of it fading under bright sunlight.

Compact laminate has no UV protection. The colour may fade when exposed to harsh sunlight, and discolouration will be permanent. 

Fitting a worktop: Dekton vs Compact Laminate

Dekton is an ultra-compact worktop. Its density means it is vulnerable to splits and cracks and needs to be handled carefully during installation to avoid undue stress on the slabs.

It requires specialist cutting tools cooled by water to protect the blades and the Dekton. Fitting is a job for professionals. 

Compact laminate is relatively easy to install but requires special tools as the surface is much harder than standard laminate.

Using inadequate blades will result in damage to the surface and your tools. It is best left to the professionals who can ensure that joins are sealed effectively and can also create cutouts for under-mount sinks and draining grooves.

Cost of Dekton Vs Compact Laminate

You can expect to pay between £1500 and £2500 plus VAT for a Dekton worktop in a standard-size kitchen. The price compares to other stone worktops and reflects the hardwearing nature and longevity of the material.

Compact laminate is not as cheap as standard laminate worktops and can cost around £1200 for a typical kitchen. The price will depend on the thickness chosen.

You can see that compact laminate is a slightly cheaper option than Dekton, but you need to factor in the durability of Dekton. It should be considered a longer-term investment than compact laminate.

Final Thoughts

Hopefully, our guide to Dekton vs compact laminate has helped you to make a good choice for your home. 

For those wishing to create a luxury, sleek finish with a unique appeal, Dekton is undoubtedly a solid investment that will suit traditional or contemporary styles.

If you want to know more about the luxury worktops we supply and fit, please get in touch with us today at Mr Worktop Fitter. We have over ten years of experience in the industry and are proud to supply Dekton as an innovative, hardwearing engineered stone worktop.